Name: Samantha Staggs
Major: Global Studies/German; Minor: History
Hometown: Sutherland, NE
Year at UNL: Junior
Favorite book and why: My favorite book is titled “Yes, Please” by Amy Poehler, because the book is a genius comedic creation and builds a platform for self-empowerment through description of her own personal experiences.
Favorite dish/food and why: My favorite dish is a cheeseburger with fries, because I without shame embrace the stereotypical American food culture and it is undoubtedly present in most restaurant menus.
Why Global Studies?
I chose Global Studies as my major to give myself the opportunity to develop my understanding of the world, those who inhabit it and to increase my connectivity to foreign culture and influence. And if I am being completely honest, I wanted to spend the most time allowable on foreign college campuses and to develop my international network. I have enjoyed the classes that focused in challenging the norm-ideas and that have demanded critical thinking from the students. I suggest future Global Studies major to always keep an open mind when choosing classes and determining your own direction, because it is important to have a wide range of skill sets and your interests will grow through the introduction of new concepts and interpretations.
Tell us about your study abroad/internship experience.
In the January 2016, I traveled to Berlin, Germany to study the German language for a semester. During those months, I visited a number of German cities, Hamburg being one of my favorites. I also traveled to the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Switzerland, and Greece. After returning to Nebraska in May, I began the planning of my next abroad exchange. Currently, I am study at the University of Amsterdam and will be returning to the states end of July. I am studying the Dutch language and society, the political usage of language in news media, as well the fundamental rights of the European Union. While studying abroad, every day is an unfamiliar and exciting adventure and I cannot stress enough how beneficial overseas studies can be for one on the professional, academic and personal level.
What are you post-graduation plans?
After graduation, I wish to apply for the Fulbright scholarship and assistant teach in a classroom in Germany. I also have a desire for volunteer work, mainly with the Peace Corps. I also have interests in applying to become a Foreign Service officer after a few years of volunteer work. I wish to better the strained relations the United States has created with our foreign counter parts. My principle goal after graduation is to combine my skills and experiences in a way that will be fulfilling to myself and those around me.